The best places to climb in the UK

Top UK climbing spots not to be missed

Once you've decided that climbing is the activity to get you fit and healthy, there are plenty of opportunities in the UK to test out your new climbing skills. There are plenty of mountain ranges and hills to get you going in the world of mountain climbing, so here's our guide to the best places to climb in the UK.

Climbing in the South West

The South West offers an extensive and varied range of climbing opportunities. For sea-cliff climbing, Devon and Cornwall are particularly popular. Granite crags can be found in Sennen and Bosgran. The Culm coast is a hot spot for experienced sea cliff climbers, as is Berry Head and its limestone cliff faces. It is important to note that most sea cliffs come into best condition from March until around late September.

Climbing in the Lake DistrictThe Lake District National Park in North West England is easily accessible. Among the top spots for crags are the valleys of Langdale, Borrowdale, and Buttermere. The high-mountain routes in this area can be reached in under an hour’s walk from the road. These include Scafell, Great Gable, and Bowfell.

Climbing in the Peak DistrictThe Peak District is considered by many UK climbers as the best spot in England. It is certainly the most popular by far. Close to the cities of Manchester and Sheffield, the Peak District is very easy to get to and offers endless accommodation opportunities. This area offers climbs and challenges for all levels of experience, with more than 10,000 recorded climbs to be found in guidebooks.

Climbing in North WalesNorth Wales again offers a wide-range of climbs, all within a short distance of one another. Snowdonia National Park is full-to-the-brim with climbing centres and clubs. And in the northwest corner of Holy Island just off Anglesey is the world-famous sea cliff, Gogarth. Access to this area is restricted during the sea bird nesting season.

Climbing in ScotlandScotland offers less crowded climbs compared to many other parts of the UK. Some of the climbing highlights here include Creag and Dubh Loch high in the Cairngorms, which can be reached on foot in around two hours. There are a huge number of youth hostels and low budget accommodation near to some of the best climbing sites.